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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful pasta dish made with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a silky basil pesto cream sauce. This easy dinner recipe combines fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and creamy goodness for a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Cherry tomatoes optional
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
  5. Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
  6. Stir in pesto and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  7. Return chicken to the skillet and mix well.
  8. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture.
Do not overcook the pasta.
Add spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to keep creamy.